I recently had the opportunity to attend the National Grants Management Association’s (NGMA) Annual Grants Training (AGT) Conference, and it was an incredibly enriching experience. This conference is one of the premier events for grants management professionals, particularly those working in government. I attended with a special sense of accomplishment, having recently earned my Certified Grants Management Specialist (CGMS) certification, and I was eager to earn continuing education credits. My main objectives were to hear updates on best practices in the field, particularly regarding the revisions to Uniform Guidance that took effect last October, and to gain insights into how recent Executive Orders from the new presidential administration are impacting federal grant management.
A Conference Unlike Any Other
The conference exceeded my expectations in every way. I attended as many sessions as possible, soaking in valuable insights from experts across the grants management field. What stood out to me most was how speakers and attendees described the conference itself. One person called it a “group therapy session,” while another described the attendees as “one big family.” Descriptions like these felt incredibly true. There is something uniquely reassuring about being surrounded by professionals who share the same challenges, goals, and commitment to excellence in grants management. I left feeling empowered, knowing that this strong community and wealth of resources exist to support me in my work.
Key Sessions That Left a Lasting Impact
Several sessions were particularly impactful. A plenary panel on compliance in the wake of new Executive Orders targeting federal agencies was compelling and underscored the currently evolving nature of grants administration. A panel discussion on the use of grants management software at the state level shed light on best practices and innovative solutions for improving efficiency, insights I’ll take to my job at the Nebraska DHHS. Another highlight was the roundtable discussion with public health sector grants managers. The energy in that room was incredible—lots of great ideas were shared on how to address recent developments in public health funding and compliance. Additionally, multiple panels on subrecipient monitoring provided fresh perspectives and strategies that I’m eager to implement in my work on that particular area.
The Power of Networking
Beyond the sessions, networking was a major focus for me. I returned home with a stack of business cards and connected with many new colleagues on LinkedIn. The conference provided an excellent opportunity to engage with professionals from various sectors, exchange ideas, and build relationships that I hope will lead to future collaborations. The grants management community is filled with passionate and knowledgeable folks, and I am grateful for the chance to be part of it!
Key Takeaways and Looking Ahead
One of my biggest takeaways from the conference is the importance of staying ahead of changes in policy and best practices. The grants management landscape is evolving rapidly, and continuous learning is essential to ensure compliance and effectiveness in our work. Moving forward, I plan to incorporate some of the insights I gained into my consulting practice, particularly regarding adapting to new federal guidance.
For professionals in the grants management space, I highly recommend attending NGMA’s Annual Grants Training Conference. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to gain knowledge, connect with peers, and feel reinvigorated in your work. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event and continuing to engage with this incredible community.
If you attended the conference, I’d love to hear your key takeaways! Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn or reach out through GrantCraft Consulting to continue the conversation.